MOSCOW, April 15. /TASS/. Russia and Pakistan prefer a diplomatic solution rathen than a military option in the settlement of the conflict in Yemen, Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, who arrived in Russia to take part in the Conference for International Security said.

"We agreed to step up our efforts in the diplomatic settlement of the regional problems, mainly conflicts in the Gulf zone and in the Middle East. Diplomacy should receive a chance, specifically in Yemen. Armed activities could not settle the conflict. It requires diplomatic efforts," Khawaja Muhammad Asif told reporters after his talks with Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

In the words of the Pakistani guest, the defence ministers of the two countries stated that peaceful resolution should be found for the settlement of the crisis in Yemen. "We hope for Russia’s more active role in the achievement of peace in the region," Khawaja Muhammad Asif said.

The Fourth Conference for International Security due to be held in Moscow on April 16-17 will focus on the global security, its threats and prospects.